The Difference between Spider and Varicose Veins

02 Dec The Difference between Spider and Varicose Veins

A lot of people think that varicose veins and spider veins are two different terms for the same health condition. While the causes, symptoms, and treatments for both conditions are quite similar, these are two distinct venous diseases.

Varicose veins are large, swollen and raised blood vessels that usually develop in the legs. They can appear in the form of twisting and turning lines and can usually be seen through the skin.

Spider veins are smaller than varicose veins, and also twist and turn under the skin. However, they are quite distinct and show up in the form of blue, red, or purple vessels.

They are always visible through the skin and are considered more of a cosmetic issue than a health problem.

Let’s break it down further:

Causes of Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Spider veins are usually hereditary. Contributing factors include prolonged sitting or standing, fluctuating hormones, and obesity.

Varicose veins are also genetic, but they are usually a result of incorrect functioning of the vein valves or weakening vein walls.

Normal vein valves only allow the blood to flow in one direction. Damaged valves are unable to prevent the flow of blood backward, causing increased pressure in the veins.

This increased pressure results in elongated veins that can become protruded, swollen, and painful.

Symptoms of Varicose Veins and Spider Veins:

There are no specific physical or medical symptoms of spider veins. The only problem is their unsightly appearance and they are usually treated to give the skin a better appearance.

Varicose veins cause various symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Usually, these include heaviness, pressure, aching feeling, fatigue, and restless or jittery legs.

Treating Varicose Veins and Spider Veins:

Varicose veins almost always require some form of minimally invasive procedure to treat them. Smaller veins are usually treated through Sclerotherapy. This involves shutting down the veins using a dilute solution to divert the blood to healthier veins.

Larger veins require additional procedures including mini-phlebectomy where a small portion of the vein is removed and ablation of the faulty veins.

Mild forms of spider vein can be treated with conservative care and compression wear. For extensive cases of spider veins, Sclerotherapy is usually the gold standard.

Spider Veins and Varicose Veins Treatment:

Renew Vein Centers is one of the premier vein clinics. We offer offers customized treatment plans created by leading vein physicians. We specialize in treating varicose veins using expert diagnoses and modern treatment methods. Our treatments include treating conditions such as spider veins and varicose veins, leg cramps, vein insufficiency, and restless leg syndrome. 

Our treatment methods include ClariVein and laser ablation. Call 833-RENEWRX today to schedule an appointment!